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Although considered as "alternative" medicine by most western cultures, Traditional Chinese medicine is a complete and comprehensive medical system over thousands of years old. This page will help explain some of the aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine I am currently studying.
Acupuncture
Plainly put, acupuncture is the insertion of extremely thin needles into specific points in the body. The stimulation of these points helps to balance the energy in the body to influence physiological, psychological and emotional function in the mind and body.
Today acupuncture is used mainly to alleviate physical pain, but acupuncture is indicated for so much more. In 1979, The World Health Organization issued a list of 41 diseases amenable to acupuncture treatment. These include disorders of the respiratory, digestive, and nervous system, asthma, eye disease, and post-stroke paralysis. Acupuncture is also being used in conjunction with chemotherapy to relieve some of the side effects of the drugs. Acupuncture is also used as an anesthetic during surgery.
Although this is the most well known traditional Chinese method of healing, there are many other aspects to traditional Chinese medicine.
Gua Sha
This is a very old technique that uses friction to bring stagnate blood and qi to the surface of the body in order to promote circulation and relieve pain. Gua sha is actually a home remedy in many eastern countries and is so well known that it is not taught in the Traditional Chinese Medicine schools there. The effects of this treatment usually immediate and long-lasting.
Cupping
Cupping is another old technique that has been used throughout the world for generations. It involves different sized cups which suction to the body bringing stagnate qi and blood to the surface. This treatment has many indications including pain, respiratory, and digestive disorders.
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Herbalism
In China, herbs are used more frequently than acupuncture to treat disease. Traditional Chinese herbalism is based on the same theory as acupuncture is. There are energy pathways in the body and each herb has energetic properties of their own. Some herbs will tonify or sedate certain actions in the body and/or specific organs. Herbalism can be very effective in treating disorders of the mind and body, but a competent practitioner is very important. Although, herbs may be termed "natural", it does not mean that they are all safe. The correct dosage and combination of herbs is essential in aiding your journey to wellness, safely.
Qi Gong
Qi gong literally means working with qi (energy or breath). Qi is difficult to explain, but think of it as the "vital energy" of your body. Qi is what motivates the functions of your body and mind. Qi gong is the name given to the exercises or practices involved with regulating, storing, stimulating, and enhancing this energy. There are many forms of qigong practice, but all create a greater awareness of the body, thus promoting healing.
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